Player of the Month
As we strive to achieve our mission, each month Sporting Generosity will identify an individual that has meant more to the sports world than his or her achievements on the court, ice, or field. This individual will have given back to the community by providing hope to a sick child, financial assistance to an underprivileged youth, or by becoming an advocate for a specific cause. These athletes are people who give back not out of obligation, but out of conviction in its necessity. With that said, please congratulate our June, 2011 Player of the Month.
BJ McKinney (June, 2011)
Brandon J. McKinney ("BJ"), born on August 24, 1983 is a defensive lineman for the Baltimore Ravens. Originally from Dayton, Ohio, BJ played collegiately for the Michigan State Spartans and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the San Diego Chargers in 2006. Through hard work and perseverance, BJ established himself in the league and in 2008 he was signed by the Baltimore Ravens. From his rookie days forward, BJ has immersed himself in the community and has proven to be one of the most generous athletes we know today.
Shortly after beginning his career with the Chargers in 2006, BJ launched the BJ Kids 91 Foundation. The focus of the organization relates to four core areas: social responsibility, academic enrichment, health and well being, and philanthropy. The events and programming of the foundation are all centered around these core competencies with a focus on children and young adults.
The BJ McKinney Foundation is currently planning the launch of what they consider to be their "Fatherhood Initiative" program. Directed at children and young adults ages 16-26, the initiative will be a nine week mentoring session. The sessions will focus on several issues including responsible parenting, conflict resolution and the prevention of early fatherhood. The program's mission is to engage young adults into responsible thinking and action. BJ's father and Executive Director of the foundation, Timothy McKinney, has extensive academic experience in this type of counseling and is leading the program's implementation.
On June 16th and June 17th, BJ led his annual football clinics. The event is broken down into two days, the first being a skills development day for children 7-14 years of age. The second day is a scrimmage based environment which includes competition between teams comprised of seven. This year's camp is benefiting over 140 children and is completely financed by the BJ Kids 91 Foundation.
In addition to his annual football camp, the foundation also has several other events including an annual bike-a-thon and a skating party. The purpose of these events are to engage and encourage children towards achieving a healthier lifestyle.
Finally, BJ's signature event is the Barber/Stylist Cut-Off. Commencing in San Diego during his time with the Chargers, this event is now the foundation's most popular program. BJ annually invites 800-1,000 kids the day before school starts to receive a free haircut. The goal is to help children build their confidence before they start the new school year.
Stylists and barbers in the local area donate their time for the event. The event also includes motivational speakers, talent shows, and other miscellaneous activities
Said McKinney, "as an aspiring athlete, I always promised I would give back to the community if I became a professional football player. The Barber/Stylist Cut-Off was one of my first opportunities to do this. To see the pictures of the confidence in kids' faces after receiving free haircuts or hairstyles and school supplies is an amazing feeling. I wish I could be there to share the moment with them. It's not about the recognition, but the satisfaction of knowing I made a difference in a child's life."
Please join us in thanking BJ McKinney and the BJ Kids 91 Foundation for everything they are doing for our communities. To make a donation, please click here.
The Babac'Ards Foundation, founded by Boris Diaw of the Charlotte Bobcats, has a mission of improving the lives of Senegalese children. They are currently fundraising to open a women's training facility. Please click here for more information.
Every day, hundreds of athletes and organizations are showing a tremendous amount of generosity to their community. Here at SG, we can’t possibly know about everything taking place. Please, if you are or know of a professional athlete or organization that has used sport to make our world a better place, please click here to share your or their story.
Sporting Generosity would like to recognize BJ McKinney of the Baltimore Ravens for his outstanding achievements. Please Click here for more details.